FBI, Europol Foil IS-Planned Terror Attack on Real Madrid Players & Fans in Joint Operation: Report

Madrid: The Islamic State (ISIS) had planned a terrorist attack targetting the Real Madrid fans and players at the Santiago Bernabéu (a football stadium in Madrid), Jerusalem Post reported on Monday, citing a report carried by the ‘El Confidencial’ newspaper.

At least nine individuals affiliated to the terrorist organisation cell, including residents from Girona, Cadiz, and Almeria, were reportedly arrested in the joint operation carried out by the FBI and Europol, who thwarted the attack in close coordination with the Spanish Civil Guard.

The initial plan of action, according to the Jerusalem Post report was to open fire at the team bus ferrying Real Madrid players upon its arrival at the stadium.

Earlier this month, Real Madrid – for the second time in three seasons, and sixth in 10 years – celebrated a Champions League title with its fans on the streets of the Spanish capital with thousands of supporters coming out to welcome the team a day after it won a record-extending 15th Champions League title by beating Borussia Dortmund 2-0 at Wembley Stadium.

Madrid had celebrated the Spanish league title last month, but it could not go to the Bernabeu because it had just hosted a concert.

(With inputs from the Associated Press)